It’s important that the business arrangement between a manager and their client (artist, musician, songwriter, producer, engineer, etc) be put into writing and signed by both parties in the form of an artist management contract or music manager agreement.
Even though disasters cannot always be avoided, obligations can be made much clearer and responsibilities more easily understood with the presence of a written artist management agreement. Before you get an attorney to draft a contract for you, however, you should first take stock of what you are prepared to do with and for an artist and what you expect out of the relationship.
Manager Contract For Music Artist Within In Florida
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Length of Contract The initial term should be no more than 18 months, with renewals to be no longer than three years. Never commit for any longer period than that, especially with an entity that you do not know well, regardless of how great you think he or she is today.
Managers' commissions are typically between 15 to 20% of an artist's gross income. Whether it's 15% or 20% really depends on the level of the band and the bargaining power of each party. I've seen some net deals, but they are extremely rare. That being said, I always push for a net commission on merchandise.
Business owners often sign these written agreements directly with the management company. This typically gives the management company operational control for an established period of time, usually for two to five years.
How long is a normal artist manager contract? The standard length of the management contract is three years but it can vary from 2 to 5 years on a case by case basis. Most contracts also include a "Sunset" clause.
As a general rule, managers take a percentage of all income generated by the artist in exchange for their management services. Commission rates typically range from 15-25% of the artist's gross income from: Recording royalties: Sales, streaming and licensing of recorded music.
I would say that having a manager is a necessity when the artist is established enough and is dealing with high fees, lots of press and crazy tour schedules. This is where having a manager is absolutely vital.
What Percentage Do They Make? The most common, or easiest gauging point for management percentage, at least in North America, is 15 to 20% of gross artist revenue. I personally don't know of anyone who charges 15% of gross but I have heard through the industry that some people do. I personally hear of 20% more often.
If you've been handling everything on your own and are hitting a wall getting past the proverbial industry waiting room, it might be time to hire a manager. A manager must constantly work at managing your own expectations and goals, while expanding your base of industry relationships, experience and knowledge.
Comments Section Networking: Attend industry events, music conferences, and shows to meet people in the industry. Research: Look for managers who work with artists in your genre and have a track record of success. Referrals: Ask fellow musicians and industry contacts for recommendations.